Interventional Radiology

Interventional radiology is a subspecialty of radiology employed to diagnose or treat pathology using minimally invasive surgery. Computed tomography (CT) magnetic resonance imaging, (MRI), ultrasound, and X-rays are the imaging modalities typically used. The images serve as a navigation tool allowing the interventional radiologist to guide instruments (usually needles and catheters) to the diseased area of the body. The techniques minimize physical trauma to the patient. Minimally-invasive surgery has also been shown to reduce infection rates, speed up recovery time and shorten hospital stays.